Applications for 2025 open in August
Our Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology gives you the skills, knowledge and experience you need to build a meaningful career with a lasting positive impact.
- Gain a powerful combination of legal and criminology skills.
- Explore your interests with a wide range of electives to choose from.
- Graduate with two degrees in only five years to gain a competitive career edge.
- Expand your career options in a huge range of fields, including legal practice, the community sector, international development, environmental protection, intelligence and more.
Entry requirements and pathways
Recent school leavers
ATAR requirements (compulsory)
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection considerations.
Bendigo campus
N/P 2024 lowest selection rank (including adjustment factors)
based on the Final 2023 ATAR Profile
Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
90.05 2024 lowest selection rank (including adjustment factors)
based on the Final 2023 ATAR Profile
*N/A: Students not accepted in this category, NC: New course, N/P: Not published (includes categories with less than five students). Learn more about our processes
Prerequisite
VCE: Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.
HSC: One of English Standard, English Advanced (Band 3), English as an Additional Language or Dialect (Band 4).
Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
Selection criteria
A study score of 35 in English (EAL) equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 30 in English other than EAL equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 25 in any Business, any Humanities, Legal Studies or any Mathematics equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points
Selection rank adjustments
Subject adjustments
HSC: Applicants who successfully complete one of the following HSC or equivalent Year 12 courses will have their selection rank increased by one point per study: Performance Band 3 in any business subject, any humanities subject, any language other than English, Legal Studies, Mathematics Standard 2, Mathematics Advanced, Mathematics Extension 1, Mathematics Extension 2; English Standard or English Advanced (Band 4); English as an Additional Language or Dialect (Band 5). Overall, selection ranks can be increased by a maximum of five points.
Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS)
For information on adjustment factors that may be applicable, such as those through Special Entry and Access Schemes (SEAS) and other La Trobe special access schemes see: Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS)
Aspire Programs
Our Aspire Early Entry Program provides you with an early conditional offer into your chosen course at La Trobe.
At La Trobe, there’s more than one way into uni. We have multiple streams to choose from so if you’ve given back to your community, achieved good results in Year 11 or taken extra university studies, you could take the stress out of Year 12 exams with an early conditional offer into your dream course.
Aspire Year 11 Conditional Entry
The Aspire Year 11 Conditional Entry program uses your performance in year 11 to secure you an early conditional offer into a range of courses at La Trobe. Once you have secured your place at La Trobe you can take advantage of our other Aspire pathways to unlock access to our most prestigious courses.
Get started
Aspire Early University Study
The Aspire Early University Study program rewards Year 12 students who’ve done additional studies at La Trobe with an early conditional offer into their dream course. The Early University Study stream has two options to help get your university goals back on track.
Credit for previous study (advanced standing)
Credit for previous study (advanced standing) is the recognition of prior study or learning that can be counted towards a qualification. This can reduce the number of subjects required to complete your course. The amount of credit received depends on the level and relevance of your previous study and the number of subjects completed.
The University will designate courses where there is only admission into Year 1 of the course. In these cases, there is limited credit. See list of limited entry courses.
To check if this course is available for credit, please visit the Advanced standing webpage.
Pathways
A pathway is simply an alternative way for a student to get into their dream course - if direct entry isn't an option.
We've listed the 'pathway method and outcome' - which is how you can transfer into the area you want to study, assuming you meet the entry requirements (e.g. minimum WAM). You'll also find an estimate of how long it could take you to graduate, from the start of your pathway to the completion of your dream degree.
| Preferred course | Alternative pathway courses | Pathway method & outcome | Years to graduate including the Pathway course (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology | Bachelor of Arts | Apply to transfer into preferred course | 5 years | Bachelor of Criminology | Apply to transfer into preferred course | 5 years |
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
What you'll study
Sample course structure
Please note, the following course structure is indicative and subject to change depending on your course location, offer year or how you tailor your course with specialisations, majors, minors and electives. Structures for the following year are not normally finalised until October, so the sample provided is based on the most recently approved structure. For more information, please refer to the La Trobe University Handbook.
To qualify for the award of Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology, students must complete a total of 600 credit points across 5 years.
Year 1 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 105 credit points from chosen Core
- 15 credit points from chosen Electives
Year 2 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 120 credit points from chosen Core
Year 3 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 90 credit points from chosen Core
- 30 credit points from chosen Electives
Year 4 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 15 credit points from chosen Capstone
- 75 credit points from chosen Core
- 30 credit points from chosen Electives
Year 5 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
- 30 credit points from chosen Core
- 30 credit points from chosen Core choice
- 15 credit points from chosen Core choice
- 45 credit points from chosen Electives
Study options
Core subjects are required subjects in your course. You need to complete these subjects to attain your degree.
A range of standalone elective subjects is available in this course. Some electives are recommended for your course, but you may also be able to choose from a range of University-wide electives or electives from other interest areas or disciplines. Note these electives may have their own prerequisites and other requirements. Please refer to the La Trobe University Handbook for the subjects available.
Core choice subjects are one or more subject groups you need to select in your course. Core choice subjects may be specific to your course, major, minor, specialisation or other learning requirements.
| Subject name | Subject code | Year | Credit points |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAW INTERNSHIP B | LAW4INB | 5 | 15 |
| LEGAL PRACTICE AND CONDUCT | LAW4001 | 5 | 15 |
| LEGAL RESEARCH PROJECT | LAW4005 | 5 | 15 |
| LEGAL PRACTICE AND CONDUCT CLINICAL PLACEMENT | LAW4LPP | 5 | 30 |
Capstone subjects are required subjects in your course or major that help you integrate and apply the knowledge and skills you gain to solve real world problems. Capstone subjects are often taken towards the end of your course.
| Subject name | Subject code | Year | Credit points |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRIMINAL LAW, ETHICS AND ACCOUNTABILITY | LCR3ETA | 4 | 15 |
Work-Based Learning
Elective placement opportunities (Work Based Learning)
During this course, you will have the opportunity to participate in a Work Based Learning (WBL) placement experience, designed to allow you to extend your formal academic learning beyond the classroom. The WBL experience will provide the opportunity to bring your learning from the university into a work environment and test out your knowledge in a professional real-world environment. Some courses include compulsory WBL subjects, however, we also offer a range of elective WBL subjects, both cross-discipline and subject-specific. La Trobe University will source placements for some subjects, while others will require you to source your own placement. If you are required to source your own placement, dedicated staff will guide and support you through the process. Elective WBL subjects generally involve an application process and Subject Coordinator approval. The location and number of hours undertaken can vary considerably depending on the activity and the discipline area. Please refer to the individual subject entries for more information. Regional students are eligible to access additional support under the Regional Reward program
See La Trobe University Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options. The delivery of this course can vary between campuses.
View course information for Bendigo
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology course and career outcomes
However you choose to structure your study, La Trobe recognises your hard work. Here are the pathways you could follow as you move through your course.
Year 1
After completing 1 year of full-time study
You can exit with a Diploma of Arts
Course intended learning outcomes
- Demonstrate appropriate understanding and competence in the prescribed areas of knowledge required for admission into legal practice in Victoria, Australia, as determined by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board.
- Identify, research and formulate evidence-based responses to issues in the criminal justice system.
- Demonstrate a capacity to critically analyse and reflect on the legal, social, cultural and political contexts in which criminalisation occurs and in which responses to offending behaviour are formulated
- Discuss and reflect upon the professional and ethical responsibilities of the various actors in the criminal justice system.
- Interpret, utilize, develop and evaluate theoretical propositions, methodologies, conclusions and professional decisions
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of criminology as a discipline and practice and the varying explanations and strategies it offers for explaining and responding to crime.
- Construct and communicate effective, appropriate and persuasive arguments.
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of Australian legal systems, institutions and procedures, including fundamental legal principles and concepts in substantive areas of law.
- Apply analytical and professional judgement in identifying legal issues, critically evaluating legal doctrine and providing innovative solutions to complex legal problems.
- Coherently communicate legal knowledge, research, and analysis using a variety of modes to both legal and non-legal actors.
- Demonstrate an advanced capacity to work independently, self-manage and reflect on workload, foster personal and professional development, and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
- Critically analyse, synthesise relevant legal sources and conduct research independently using technologies where appropriate.
- Demonstrate awareness of and critically reflect on lawyers' professional and ethical responsibilities and the importance of integrity and service in legal analysis and practice.
- Demonstrate awareness of and critically reflect on the historical, social, economic and cultural contexts and implications of laws and the role of lawyers in promoting justice and equity.
- Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the factors that contribute to offending behaviours.
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology career opportunities
This course satisfies the academic requirements for admission to practise law in Victoria. After graduation, you could work across a range of industries relating to law and criminology, including in legal practice, the community sector, international development, environmental protection, government, banking and professional services, corrections, and intelligence.
With the valuable blend of legal expertise and criminological insights you'll build in this degree, your potential careers include:
- Criminal defence lawyer
- Help vulnerable people charged with criminal offences and provide accessible legal advice and representation for disadvantaged people within the community.
- Criminal justice policy maker
- Work in government or for a statutory agency reviewing the societal impact of existing criminal justice laws and policies, and formulating recommendations for new policies to address issues.
- Barrister or solicitor
- Advocate for justice as you prepare cases, represent clients in court, assist in creating and reviewing contracts, and provide advice on legal issues.
- Police prosecutor
- Represent the government, working with state and federal police forces in the prosecution of criminal matters.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology course includes the subjects required by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board to meet the academic requirements for admission to the legal profession in Victoria as an Australian lawyer.
Admission to the legal profession by the Supreme Court of Victoria also requires the completion of practical legal training via either a 12-month period of supervised legal training or completion of an approved practical legal training course (for example, at the Leo Cussen Institute or The College of Law). Candidates for admission to practice must also satisfy the Admissions Board that they are a fit and proper person to be admitted to practice.
International students are advised to obtain assurance of recognition of the course by the relevant professional bodies in their preferred country of practice.
International graduates require a relevant visa to complete a practical legal traineeship and a supervised workplace traineeship in Australia. Please contact the Australian Department of Home Affairs for details.
Professional registration may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. For further details, including admission to the legal profession and/or relevant visa requirements, please contact the professional body for details.
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Fees and scholarships
Estimated course fees for domestic students
Estimated fees per year (2025):
Indicative based on 2024 fees
$16,323 (CSP) per 120 credit points.
Commonwealth supported places (CSP):
The estimated fees are indicative only. The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. In some cases, your course fees may be higher than the indicated fees because of the subjects you choose.
To get a more accurate estimation, you can use the fee calculator to calculate your course fees and study load (EFTSL: Equivalent full-time study load)
How your fees are calculated
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. This estimated cost is provided as a guide only – the actual cost will vary depending on:
- the subjects you choose
- the time it takes to do your course based on your study load (full-time/part-time)
- approved credit for prior learning
If part-time study is permitted, your annual fees will be proportionally lower based on the number of subjects taken per semester.
Fee help
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your share of the fee (the student contribution), is set each year by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual subjects, not the overall course.
Learn more about Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
HECS-Help Loan
HECS-HELP is the Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program. It enables you to borrow the amount of your student contribution and then pay that loan back once you are in the workforce and earning at a specified level. A HECS-HELP loan is not means tested.
HECS-HELP is available to eligible Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa holders who are enrolled in a CSP. As a CSP student, you may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which allows you to defer payment of up to 100% of your student contribution.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for both current and future students. Find out what La Trobe scholarship opportunities might be available to you. View all available scholarships
Note: You must first have an offer to study at La Trobe before you are eligible to apply for a La Trobe scholarship.
Scholarships that may be available for this course
Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) Program
Albury-Wodonga Campus, Bendigo Campus, Melbourne Campus, City Campus, Mildura Campus, Shepparton Campus – Future undergraduates, 1st year undergraduates, Australian Citizen, Humanitarian Visa, New Zealand Citizen, Permanent Resident
Full time enrolment and proof of relocation will be confirmed before payment is made into the recipient's bank account.
Questions about fees and scholarships?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
How to apply
Before you apply
If you are applying for multiple courses you will need to apply through UAC or VTAC (Semester 1 only). If you are applying for one course, you may be able to apply direct.
Applying for a Bachelor's degree
Current Year 12 students living in Victoria
Book a 1:1 consultation
If you’re a Year 12 student from Victoria, you’ll lodge an application via the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). Your application will then be assessed based on your Year 12 results when they’re released.
Current Year 12 students living in NSW
Find out how
If you’re a Year 12 student from New South Wales, you’ll lodge an application via UAC. Your application will then be assessed based on your Year 12 results when they’re released.
Ready to apply?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Other courses you may like
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Bachelor of Criminology
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent3 years full-time
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Overview
Key facts
| Award | Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology |
|---|---|
| VTAC code | 2100212191 (CSP) |
| Start dates |
Indicative based on 2024 start dates Semester 1 (March 2025) |
| Duration | 5 years full-time or part-time equivalent |
| Available locations | Melbourne (Bundoora), Bendigo |
| Scholarships | View fees and scholarships |
| Prerequisite | English (Please refer to admission requirements for details) |
| Fees |
Indicative based on 2024 fees Estimated cost per year if studying full time $16,323 (CSP) per 120 credit points.Actual fees may vary depending on subject choice; Learn more about Fees and scholarships. |
ATAR requirements
* based on the Final 2023 ATAR Profile
Bendigo campus
Lowest selection rank N/P
Melbourne (Bundoora) campus
Lowest selection rank 90.05
Estimate your ATAR
ATAR calculator*N/A: Students not accepted in this category, NC: New course, N/P: Not published (includes categories with less than five students).
About the Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology
When you study La Trobe's Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology, you'll be ready to build a meaningful career and fight for justice.
In your law study, you can personalise your course to your career goals with electives and opportunities for professional experience. Our outstanding legal training and progressive approach to law means you'll be ready for employment – including by building skills like advocacy, negotiation and dispute resolution, which are highly valued in any workplace.
By adding criminology expertise, you'll build a broader view of how crime affects – and is affected by – our society. Explore the complex causes of crime and learn how to craft innovative responses to real-world criminal justice problems.
The program includes all the compulsory law subjects required by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board for admission to the legal profession in Victoria, as well as a wide range of law and criminology electives.
Learn from legal experts in our Law School and put your knowledge into practice with opportunities for real-world placement experiences – from working in environments including community legal centres, law firms and government agencies to building mentor relationships with judges, magistrates and coroners.
You'll learn:
- Evidence and criminal procedure
- Build your understanding of the criminal legal system and procedure. Learn how to apply criminal law to real-world scenarios and provide legal advice.
- Private and public law
- Learn how to apply the legal principles underpinning contract law, develop the skills to specialise as a corporate legal expert and discover how government power is distributed, exercised and controlled.
- Criminal justice
- Explore how deviance and crime are understood by different parts of society. Explore the role of courts, police and prisons in the criminal justice system.
- International crime
- Understand how crimes transcend borders. Analyse responses from the international community.
The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 8 – Bachelor Degree Honours.
Have questions?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Other courses you may like
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